Catalan Dragons have confirmed the signing of controversial Australian star Israel Folau on a one-year deal.
The 30-year-old is one of the biggest names across both codes of rugby, having represented Australia in both league and union, as well as playing for Queensland in State of Origin.
He was at the centre of much controversy in 2019, however, after being sacked by Rugby Australia in July for expressing his religious views surrounding homosexuality on social media.
He subsequently entered legal proceedings for unfair dismissal at the Federal Circuit Court of Australia, eventually reaching a confidential settlement in December.
There were rumours he would return to the NRL and also play for Tonga last season, however that move was blocked by Deputy Chief of the RLIF Peter Beattie.
Israel Folau est un Dragon ?
https://t.co/rKu4l0ZKFb
https://t.co/k0KoKwlPSv#Dragons ? pic.twitter.com/KJBOrHcwE7— Dragons Catalans (@DragonsOfficiel) January 28, 2020
“I acknowledge the views expressed by Super League and the Rugby Football League,” said Folau. “I’m a proud Christian, my beliefs are personal, my intention is not to hurt anyone and I will not be making further public comment about them.
“I look forward to my return to the great game of Rugby League with the Catalans Dragons.”
Catalans chairman Bernard Guasch added: “We want to give Israel a new opportunity to shine on the pitch. We do not support or agree with Israel’s previously expressed and controversial views which are based upon his sincerely held religious belief.
“We do not share or condone those views and we are totally committed to our club and our sport being open and welcoming to everyone. We do not believe that those views should be publicly expressed, especially by a high-profile sports person. We have a signed agreement with the RFL.
“Any transgression will trigger an immediate termination of Israel’s contract and a substantial fine for the club.”
